THE HAGUE, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Chelsea booked a hard fought 1-0 win victory at Ajax in Amsterdam on Wednesday in Group H of the Champions League.
Highlights were rare in the first half in the Johan Cruijff Arena, with both teams in balance. Ajax scored in the 35th minute through Quincy Promes on an a deflected cross by Hakim Ziyech, but the goal by the forward was disallowed for offside.
In the second half Ajax was close to a goal again, but a header by Mexican midfielder Edson Alvares touched the post. Chelsea coach Frank Lampard brought in Michy Batshuayi for Tammy Abraham in the 71st minute and the Belgian substitute got an big chance. His shot went over the post.
In the 86th minute, Batshuayi got another chance and this time his shot went into the goal via the cross-bar. The 1-0 result meant the first defeat for Ajax of the season in all competitions.
Chelsea and Ajax now both are on six points from three matches in Group G of the Champions League. Later on Wednesday Lille, on zero points after two matches, host Valencia, on three points after two matches. The first two teams in the group after six matches qualify for the next round. Enditem
